Sunlight Intensity: Calculate Total Average Power Output of Sun

In summary, the conversation involves calculating the total average power output of the Sun based on the given intensity of sunlight reaching Earth's upper atmosphere and its distance from the Sun. The speaker suggests starting with the correct distance of the Earth from the Sun to calculate the surface area of a sphere at that radius, and then using the power density at that radius to determine the total power flux through the whole sphere. They also mention considering other radius values to calculate the total power flux.
  • #1
1ceHacka
3
0
I need help with this problem...

Suppose that the intensity of the sunlight that reaches Earth's upper atmosphere is approximately 1200 W/m2. Earth is about 1.5 times 108 km from the Sun.

What is the total average power output of the Sun, assuming it to be an isotropic source?
 
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  • #2
Do you have any initial thoughts and/or working?
 
  • #3
I know that average power is related to the intensity and the surface area.
 
  • #4
You need to start with the correct distance of the Earth from the sun (definitely not "1.5 times 108km from the Sun"), and that will give you the surface area of a sphere at the Earth's radius from the Sun. Since you are given the power density at that radius, you should be able to calculate the total power flux through the whole sphere at that radius. Given that number, what is the total power flux at other radius values?
 

What is sunlight intensity?

Sunlight intensity is a measure of the amount of solar energy that reaches a certain area on Earth's surface. It is typically expressed in watts per square meter (W/m²).

How is sunlight intensity calculated?

Sunlight intensity can be calculated by dividing the total power output of the sun (in watts) by the surface area of the sun (in square meters) and then multiplying by the distance between the sun and the Earth squared.

What is the total average power output of the sun?

The total average power output of the sun is approximately 3.8 x 10^26 watts. This value is known as the solar constant and represents the amount of solar energy that reaches the outer atmosphere of Earth.

How does sunlight intensity vary throughout the day?

Sunlight intensity can vary throughout the day due to factors such as the angle of the sun, cloud cover, and atmospheric conditions. It is typically strongest at noon when the sun is directly overhead.

What factors can affect the accuracy of calculating sunlight intensity?

The accuracy of calculating sunlight intensity can be affected by factors such as changes in Earth's distance from the sun, changes in the sun's energy output, and atmospheric interference. Additionally, the measurement equipment and methods used can also impact the accuracy of the calculation.

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